UFC Denver preview and predictions

After a late injury forced number 4 ranked Maycee Barber to withdraw, Tracy Cortez got the call to make a step up in competition against hometown favorite and former strawweight queen Rose Namajunas to become a legit title contender. “Thug Rose” is hoping to push further into her new division and earn her second straight win there.

Even with the short notice shuffle, Cortez presents a potential style challenge for Namajunas. Cortez’ wrestling and bigger frame could give Namajunas flashbacks to being neutralized by Carla Esparza. However, even with the improvements Cortez has shown on the feet, she can expect to be disadvantaged in that realm. 

Plus, Cortez stated she only came to Denver a few days ago to acclimate to the high altitude. Namajunas should be able to avoid danger on the ground while point fighting her way to a decision. 

Prediction: Namajunas by Decision

Santiago Ponzinibbio (29-7) vs. Muslim Salikhov (19-5)

The co-main event between Santiago Ponzinibbio and Muslim Salikhov may serve as an entertaining yet pivotal moment for the veteran welterweights. Both men have had mixed results as of late and will enter the Octagon coming off of losses.

Even with their similar downward trajectory, there is a clear difference in the level of opposition they have faced. The “Argentine Dagger” has consistently fought better opponents and has made it to the scorecards against them more often. Ponzinibbio should have enough in the tank to get the win.

Prediction: Ponzinibbio by TKO, Round 2

Jean Silva (13-2) vs. Drew Dober (27-13)

The lightweight contest between Jean Silva and Drew Dober has the makings of a finish one way or the other. Silva scored first round knockouts in both of his UFC outings and Dober has built a reputation for his power punches and durable chin. A full-on slugfest wouldn’t be surprising.

But it’s hard to ignore Silva jumping back into action just two weeks ago at UFC 303. While that could prove to be advantageous from a cardio standpoint, the altitude may negate that against Dober, who lives and trains in the area. Couple that with Silva’s jump to lightweight and it might be another highlight for Dober.

Prediction: Dober by KO, Round 3

Gabriel Bonfim (15-1) vs. Ange Loosa (10-3)

There is a reason why Gabriel Bonfim is such a big favorite over Ange Loosa. This appears to be a custom match up to show off the Brazilian’s strengths and a rough litmus test for Loosa.

Bonfim’s submission game is his bread and butter while Loosa has yet to shine in any particular area on the big stage. Expect Bonfim to force this to the floor relatively early and find a way to cut off his opponent’s airway.

Prediction: Bonfim by Submission, Round 1

Christian Rodriguez (11-1) vs. Julian Erosa (29-11)

After failing to make the bantamweight for a pair of fights in 2023, Christian Rodriguez makes his second trip to featherweight to face Julian Erosa hoping to extend his four-fight win streak. Erosa snapped a two-fight skid by submitting Ricardo Ramos in March. 

While Rodriguez isn’t known as a finisher in strikes, his approach is consistent and very technical. He’s also good enough to stay out of trouble on the ground. If he can avoid any blatant mistakes, he should be able to do enough to convince the judges.

Prediction: Rodriguez by Decision

Cody Brundage (10-6) vs. Abdul Razak Alhassan (12-6)

Labeling this a striker vs. grappler matchup may be oversimplifying the abilities of both Cody Brundage and Abdul Razak Alhassan, but it seems justified here. Brundage’s clearest path to victory would getting Alhassan on his back to out position and do damage. Despite Alhassan’s judo background, that seems like a viable strategy.

The problem with that is that Brundage will likely have to endure a ton of wild strikes to do it. If it gets past the first round, the Englewood, CO resident has a strong chance of getting it done. However, that is a tall ask.

Prediction: Alhassan by KO, Round 1

Full UFC Denver fight card and odds

Main Card

• Rose Namajunas (-218) vs. Tracy Cortez (+180): Namajunas by Decision
• Santiago Ponzinibbio (-205) vs. Muslim Salikhov (+170): Ponzinibbio by TKO, Round 2
• Jean Silva (-105) vs. Drew Dober (-115): Dober by KO, Round 3
• Gabriel Bonfim (-340) vs. Ange Loosa (+270): Bonfim by Submission, Round 1
• Julian Erosa (+170) vs. Chrisitan Rodriguez (-205): Rodriguez by Decision
• Cody Brundage (+136) vs. Abdul Razak Alhassan (-162): Alhassan by KO, Round 1

Preliminary Card

• Joshua Van (-205) vs. Charles Johnson (+170): Johnson by Decision
• Fatima Kline (-115) vs. Jasmine Jasudavicius (-105): Jasudavicius by Decision
• Montel Jackson (-155) vs. Da’Mon Blackshear (+130): Blackshear by Decision
• Luana Santos (-395) vs. Mariya Agapova (+280): Santos by Decision
• Josh Fremd (-110) vs. Andre Petroski (-110): Petroski by Decision
• Evan Elder vs. Darrius Flowers: Elder by Decision